The region of West Asia remains tense as  historical conflicts merge with contemporary political dynamics to create a volatile environment. The region faces growing challenges, as the escalation between Iran and Israel, the ongoing Gaza conflict, the developments in Syria, etc., all have led to direct and indirect regional tensions, which call for a fundamental reason to pursue new diplomatic initiatives.

The  time has arrived for peace pathways in West Asia through dialogue and understanding. India, with its strong diplomatic ties to all countries in the region, is invested in fostering peace and stability in West Asia.

The podcast series Podcast Beyond Borders by CPPR, with the podcast title  Diplomacy and Dialogue: Peace Pathways in West Asia, explores effective methods to achieve stability and reconciliation. This discussion explores potential solutions through the advancement of dialogue.

G7 SUMMIT 2025: A DEFINING MOMENT IN KANANASKIS, CANADA

After 23 years, the G7 will reconvene in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, from June 15 to 17, 2025. This summit marks a significant milestone, as it also commemorates the 50th anniversary of the G7. The journey of the G7 began in 1975, when the heads of state from six nations—Italy, the UK, France, Japan, Germany, and the USA—met in Château de Rambouillet, France to address the oil shock and financial crisis. Today, with Canada added to the group, the G7 nations collectively account for approximately 30% of global GDP.

The podcast will focus on:

• G7 vs BRICS: A Shifting Global Power Balance
• Canada at the Helm: Symbolism and Strategy
• Summit Agenda: Key Global Flashpoints
• India’s Watchful Eye
• Future of Western Alliances

SPEAKER:

Dr Johannes Maerk, Professor of Diplomacy and International Relations at the University of Applied Sciences, FH Campus, Vienna, and Professor of International Relations at the Diplomatic Academy Vienna, & the University of Vienna.

MODERATOR:

Adithyan Puthen Veettil, Research Consultant (International Relations) at Centre for Public Policy Relations (CPPR), Kochi, Kerala, India.

🎧 Hit play to find out in this episode of Policy Beyond Borders.

Donald Trump’s recent visit to the Gulf—featuring key meetings with leaders from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar—has reactivated high-stakes diplomatic conversations in West Asia. His outreach signals renewed U.S. engagement in the region, spotlighting arms deals, anti-Iran cooperation, and the revival of the Abraham Accords. Notably, Trump’s absence from Israel and his surprise meeting with Syria’s new leader, Ahmad Al-Sharaa, have added fresh intrigue to shifting power dynamics.

The visit also touched on energy security and economic realignments, as Gulf states weigh partnerships amidst rising Chinese and Russian influence. For India, which maintains strong people-to-people and energy ties with the Gulf, these developments carry both opportunities and challenges—particularly in balancing relations with Iran and exploring new avenues for strategic cooperation.

How might Trump’s Gulf reset influence West Asian alliances—and what does it mean for India?

🎧 Hit play to find out in this episode of Policy Beyond Borders.